Maltese (dog breed) – Everything you need to know

Origin and History of the Maltese

The Maltese is one of the oldest and most distinguished toy breeds in the world, with a history that stretches back more than two thousand years. The breed originated from the Mediterranean island of Malta, located south of Italy, where small white companion dogs were prized by nobles and aristocrats for their elegance and refined appearance.

Archaeological and literary records suggest that similar small white dogs existed in ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt. These dogs were often depicted in art and literature as companions of royal women and noble families. The philosopher Aristotle himself referred to the “Melitaean dog,” a clear reference to early Maltese ancestors.

By the Middle Ages, the Maltese had spread across Europe through trade routes, particularly in Italy and France, where they became fashionable lapdogs among noblewomen. Their affectionate temperament and luxurious white coats made them symbols of wealth and grace. During the Renaissance, artists like Titian and Goya immortalized the Maltese in their portraits, often shown resting beside aristocratic figures.

Through selective breeding over centuries, the Maltese evolved into the refined, pure-white, long-coated lapdog known today. While their size and proportions were standardized, their gentle, loving personality has remained unchanged. Today, the Maltese continues to embody sophistication and affection — a living link between ancient civilization and modern companionship.

Positive Traits of the Maltese

Trait	Description
Affectionate and Loyal	The Maltese forms deep emotional connections with its owner, often becoming a constant shadow around the home. They are known for their devotion and eagerness to please.
Highly Intelligent	This breed is quick to learn routines, commands, and even tricks, making them easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.
Gentle Temperament	The Maltese has a soft, patient nature that makes it excellent with children and seniors alike, provided interactions are gentle.
Playful and Energetic	Despite their small size, they have bursts of energy and love to play fetch or engage in short, fun activities indoors.
Minimal Shedding	As a single-coated breed, the Maltese sheds very little, which is ideal for allergy-sensitive owners. Regular grooming maintains coat quality.
Alert and Observant	They are attentive to their surroundings and will alert owners to unfamiliar noises, acting as small but effective watchdogs.
Adaptable to Apartment Life	Due to their size and calm indoor behavior, they thrive in small spaces and require only moderate exercise.
Excellent Companion Animal	The Maltese’s emotional intelligence allows them to provide comfort and support, making them great therapy dogs.

Negative Traits of the Maltese

Trait	Description
Separation Anxiety	The Maltese bonds deeply with its owners and dislikes being left alone for long periods. Extended isolation can lead to destructive chewing, barking, or stress-related health issues.
Fragile Build	Due to their small size and delicate bone structure, they can be easily injured by rough handling or accidental falls. Supervision around young children is essential.
Excessive Barking	The breed’s alert nature sometimes leads to frequent barking, especially when excited or left unsupervised. Consistent training helps control this behavior.
Stubbornness in Training	While intelligent, Maltese dogs may show selective hearing if training sessions become repetitive or lack motivation. Patience and positivity are key.
Tear Staining	This breed is prone to brown tear stains under the eyes due to blocked tear ducts or mineral content in water. Regular cleaning and filtered water help minimize discoloration.
Sensitive Digestion	Maltese dogs often have delicate stomachs and may react poorly to diet changes or low-quality food. A consistent, premium diet is required.
Separation-Driven Barking	Some individuals express anxiety through vocalization when their owner leaves. Early crate training and desensitization can prevent this.
Overprotectiveness	Their strong attachment may cause possessive or jealous behaviors, especially toward other pets or strangers. Proper socialization prevents these tendencies.

Character and Behavior of the Maltese

The Maltese is the embodiment of gentle affection, charm, and liveliness. Despite being a small toy breed, they have a bold and confident personality, often unaware of their petite size. They are social, deeply attached to their owners, and thrive on constant companionship and affection.

This breed is known for its cheerful, loving nature — a Maltese will happily spend hours on its owner’s lap but also enjoys bursts of playful energy. They are alert and curious, often watching every movement around the home with a sense of responsibility, which makes them surprisingly effective watchdogs despite their small stature.

The Maltese is exceptionally good with families. They adore children and usually get along well with other pets when properly socialized. However, due to their fragile frame, supervision is crucial when playing with younger children to prevent accidental injury.

Their emotional sensitivity is one of their strongest traits. Maltese dogs are very responsive to human tone and body language — they can detect sadness, joy, or tension and often try to comfort their owners. This makes them excellent emotional-support or therapy dogs, capable of lifting moods and easing anxiety.

However, their emotional intelligence also makes them vulnerable to stress. Sudden changes in environment, loneliness, or harsh training can lead to anxiety-driven behaviors such as barking or chewing. A stable, loving home environment with consistent attention helps them flourish both mentally and emotionally.

In essence, the Maltese is a devoted, tender-hearted companion who craves human connection and radiates joy wherever it goes. They bring elegance and warmth to any household, proving that love, not size, defines a great dog.

Common Diseases of the Maltese

Disease	Description	Risk Level
Patellar Luxation	A common issue in toy breeds where the kneecap slips out of place, causing intermittent lameness or hopping. Can worsen without weight management or surgical correction.	High
Dental Disease (Periodontitis)	Due to their small mouths and tightly packed teeth, Maltese dogs are prone to tartar buildup and gum infections, which can lead to tooth loss.	High
Collapsed Trachea	A weakening of the tracheal cartilage that causes coughing, gagging, and difficulty breathing. Often aggravated by pulling on collars.	Medium
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)	A hereditary condition that gradually leads to vision loss and eventual blindness. Early screening helps with management.	Medium
White Shaker Syndrome	A neurological disorder seen in small white dogs, causing tremors without pain or weakness. Often treated with corticosteroids.	Medium
Portosystemic Shunt (PSS)	A congenital liver condition where toxins bypass the liver’s filtration process. Symptoms include lethargy, disorientation, or stunted growth.	Medium
Allergies (Skin and Food)	Maltese dogs often react to dust, pollen, or certain foods, causing itching and redness. Hypoallergenic diets and medicated shampoos can help.	High
Collapsed Nasal Passages	Similar to brachycephalic breeds, older Maltese dogs may develop partial nasal collapse, leading to noisy breathing.	Low
Hypoglycemia (Puppies)	Low blood sugar levels due to small body size and high metabolism, particularly in young puppies. Needs frequent small meals.	Medium
Tear Staining and Eye Irritation	Caused by overactive tear ducts or poor diet, leading to reddish-brown staining under the eyes. Regular cleaning and filtered water help reduce this.	High

Intelligence and Training Ability of the Maltese

The Maltese is a highly intelligent and emotionally perceptive breed. While they may not rank at the top of working-dog intelligence charts, their ability to understand human emotions and adapt to routines is remarkable. They excel at learning household manners, tricks, and social cues because they thrive on close human interaction and mental stimulation.

Their intelligence is most evident in their problem-solving behavior — a Maltese quickly figures out how to get attention, access toys, or communicate needs. They are motivated by praise, gentle words, and treats, which makes them eager to learn in a positive, encouraging environment.

However, their sensitivity means they don’t respond well to harsh training or negative reinforcement. Scolding can make them anxious or withdrawn. Instead, short, frequent training sessions (5–10 minutes) using positive reinforcement yield the best results. Consistency and patience are vital.

Common commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come” are easily mastered, but advanced training can include agility, nose work, and even therapy-dog certification. Their compact size and graceful movements make them naturals for indoor training or low-impact agility courses.

Maltese dogs also exhibit strong emotional intelligence — they can sense changes in tone or mood, making them highly attuned to their owners. This trait enhances training because they naturally seek approval and harmony. Owners who combine kindness, structure, and consistency will find that the Maltese learns faster than expected and retains commands for life.

In short, the Maltese is not only smart but emotionally aware, capable of responding to subtle cues and forming deep, cooperative bonds with its human companions.

Exercise and Activity Needs of the Maltese

The Maltese has low-to-moderate exercise requirements, making it a perfect fit for apartment living or owners with limited mobility. Despite being a toy breed, the Maltese enjoys bursts of energy throughout the day and needs daily mental and physical stimulation to stay balanced.

Ideal Daily Routine

• Two short walks (15–20 minutes each) are sufficient for maintaining muscle tone and joint flexibility.

• Indoor play sessions with toys, light fetch, or hide-and-seek games stimulate both body and mind.

• Training exercises (such as “sit,” “stay,” or puzzle games) provide mental enrichment and prevent boredom.

Activity Recommendations

The Maltese loves gentle activities — walking, soft chasing games, or obstacle courses with ramps and tunnels. However, overexertion should be avoided. Due to their small frame, jumping from furniture or climbing stairs frequently can cause joint strain or injuries.

Because the Maltese is highly social, exercise time also doubles as bonding time. They prefer walking beside their owner rather than exploring alone. Mental engagement is just as important as physical activity, so rotating toys and teaching new tricks helps keep their sharp mind stimulated.

Weather Considerations

This breed is sensitive to both cold and heat. During hot days, walks should be limited to early mornings or late evenings, and hydration must be ensured. In winter, sweaters or protective clothing keep them warm, as their fine coat provides little insulation against low temperatures.

Even with modest exercise needs, the Maltese should never be sedentary. Regular play and movement improve circulation, digestion, and overall happiness. A well-exercised Maltese is calmer, more focused, and less prone to anxiety — proof that good mental and physical care go hand in hand.

Feeding and Diet Recommendations for the Maltese

The Maltese has a delicate digestive system and a fast metabolism typical of toy breeds. Their diet must provide balanced nutrition without causing stomach upset or excessive weight gain. Because they are small but energetic, their food should be nutrient-dense rather than calorie-heavy.

Ideal Nutritional Composition

• Protein (22–28%): High-quality sources like chicken, turkey, lamb, or salmon support lean muscle maintenance and tissue repair.

• Healthy Fats (10–15%): Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat maintain skin and coat health.

• Complex Carbohydrates: Oats, rice, and sweet potatoes provide slow-release energy, preventing blood sugar fluctuations.

• Fiber (3–5%): Gentle fiber from pumpkin or peas supports digestion and prevents constipation.

• Calcium and Phosphorus: Critical for bone density and dental strength.

Feeding Frequency and Portion Control

Puppies should eat 3–4 small meals daily to maintain stable energy levels and prevent hypoglycemia. Adults do well with two meals per day, measured precisely according to their weight and activity level — usually ¼ to ½ cup of premium kibble per meal. Avoid free-feeding (leaving food available all day) to reduce the risk of obesity.

Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories, and training rewards should be small and low in fat. Because Maltese dogs are prone to dental issues, dry kibble helps maintain oral health better than soft foods.

Special Dietary Considerations

• Allergies: Maltese dogs often have food sensitivities to beef, corn, soy, and dairy. Rotating protein sources and using limited-ingredient formulas can help.

• Hydration: Always provide clean, filtered water — it reduces tear staining and supports kidney health.

• Supplements: Omega-3 capsules, probiotics, or dental chews can enhance overall wellness but should be introduced under veterinary advice.

Foods to Avoid

Never feed chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, caffeine, or high-fat human snacks. These can cause severe toxicity or pancreatitis.

With careful portioning and a premium-quality diet, the Maltese remains energetic, maintains a glossy coat, and avoids common health problems like digestive upset or obesity. Nutrition is truly the foundation of this breed’s longevity and radiance.

Training Techniques for the Maltese

Training a Maltese is both rewarding and delicate — this breed is eager to please but emotionally sensitive. Their intelligence and memory allow them to learn quickly, yet their independent streak can surface if training lacks positive engagement.

Core Training Principles

1. Positive Reinforcement: Reward desired behavior immediately with small treats, gentle praise, or affection. Maltese dogs respond best to encouragement, not correction.

2. Short, Engaging Sessions: Keep training under 10 minutes to sustain attention. Frequent mini-sessions throughout the day are more effective than long drills.

3. Consistency: Use the same cues and tone for each command. Repetition builds trust and confidence.

4. Early Socialization: Introduce them to various people, sounds, and pets between 8–16 weeks old. This prevents timidity and overprotective behaviors later.

5. Crate Training: Establishes safety and routine, helping with housebreaking and reducing anxiety when left alone.

Behavioral Training Focus

Maltese dogs may bark excessively when excited or anxious. To control this, teach the “quiet” command early. Reward silence rather than punishing barking. Similarly, discourage jumping by ignoring the behavior and rewarding calm greetings.

Advanced Training

Once basic obedience is mastered, Maltese dogs excel in advanced activities like agility (low-impact), trick performance, or therapy certification. They enjoy interactive learning — puzzle toys and name recognition games enhance cognitive ability.

What to Avoid

• Avoid harsh corrections, loud voices, or physical punishment. This breed’s emotional sensitivity can turn fear into stubbornness.

• Do not rush toilet training; their small bladders require patience and frequent outdoor trips.

• Overfeeding during training can lead to weight gain. Use small, healthy treats or even pieces of kibble as rewards.

The Ideal Training Mindset

Training should be viewed as bonding, not command. The Maltese thrives when it feels emotionally safe, respected, and appreciated. When approached with calm energy and affection, they learn not just obedience — they learn trust, confidence, and communication.

Coat, Skin, Eye, and Ear Care for the Maltese

Area	Recommendation
Coat Care	The Maltese has a long, silky, single-layer coat that requires daily brushing with a soft slicker brush or metal comb to prevent tangles and matting. Regular grooming maintains airflow to the skin and distributes natural oils that keep the coat shiny. Baths every 2–3 weeks with mild, pH-balanced dog shampoo help preserve coat texture and whiteness. Always dry the coat thoroughly to prevent fungal buildup.
Skin	The Maltese has sensitive skin prone to dryness and irritation. Avoid shampoos with harsh chemicals or artificial scents. Incorporating omega-3 supplements and using moisturizing sprays can help prevent flaking. Regular inspection of skin under the coat is vital for detecting allergies, redness, or parasites early.
Eyes	Tear staining is common due to overactive tear ducts and light coat color. Clean the area beneath the eyes daily using sterile pads or tear-stain removers. Provide filtered water and avoid foods with artificial coloring, as these can worsen staining. Persistent discharge should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out infection or duct blockage.
Ears	Maltese dogs have dropped ears covered in long hair that can trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for yeast or bacterial infections. Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved ear solution and cotton pad. Trim excess ear hair for airflow and dry ears thoroughly after baths.
Nails and Paws	Trim nails every 2–3 weeks. Check paw pads for dryness or cracking, especially during winter. A paw balm or coconut oil can help maintain hydration.
Dental Care	Daily tooth brushing is crucial since small breeds like the Maltese are prone to plaque and tartar buildup. Use canine toothpaste and small, soft-bristle brushes. Dental chews and regular veterinary cleanings support oral health.

Consistent grooming is not just cosmetic — it’s a vital health practice for the Maltese. Gentle handling during care routines strengthens trust and keeps them comfortable, clean, and disease-free throughout their lives.

General Health and Life Expectancy of the Maltese

The Maltese is generally a robust and long-lived toy breed, with an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, and some individuals reaching 17 years with excellent care. Their longevity is a direct reflection of their size, genetics, and the attentive care they receive throughout life.

Health Strengths

The Maltese benefits from being an ancient, well-established breed with relatively low predisposition to severe genetic illnesses when bred responsibly. Their heart, liver, and immune systems tend to remain strong with proper nutrition, hygiene, and exercise. Regular veterinary checkups — at least twice per year — allow early detection of subtle health issues before they progress.

Common Health Challenges

The most frequent health issues in the Maltese are dental disease, allergies, and joint problems like patellar luxation. Because of their long coat and light pigmentation, skin sensitivity is another recurring concern. Maintaining healthy weight is critical; even small gains can put stress on the joints and trachea.

Preventive Care

1. Veterinary Visits: Schedule semi-annual exams including dental, joint, and blood evaluations for early detection.

2. Parasite Prevention: Regular protection against fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms is essential, especially for indoor dogs that go outside occasionally.

3. Vaccination: Core vaccines (rabies, parvovirus, distemper) are non-negotiable. Optional vaccines for kennel cough or leptospirosis may be added based on environment.

4. Balanced Nutrition: Weight control through precise feeding supports joint health and longevity.

5. Temperature Regulation: Avoid both heat and cold extremes. Maltese dogs cannot tolerate humidity or low temperatures due to their single coat.

Longevity Factors

With proper dental care, balanced diet, and daily mental engagement, many Maltese dogs live into their mid-teens. Emotional well-being is equally important — stress, loneliness, or inconsistent care can negatively impact health.

Owners who prioritize routine healthcare, mental enrichment, and consistent affection can expect their Maltese to remain joyful, graceful, and youthful far beyond average expectations. Their vitality and elegance in old age reflect the quality of love and attention they receive from their families.

Ideal Owner and Living Environment for the Maltese

The Maltese is an ideal companion for individuals and families who can provide constant love, gentle handling, and emotional presence. This breed thrives on human companionship and forms powerful, lifelong bonds with its owners. Because of its size, sensitivity, and affectionate temperament, the Maltese is best suited for indoor, comfort-oriented lifestyles.

Best Type of Owner

• Families and couples: The Maltese integrates beautifully into family life and enjoys participating in daily routines. It is patient and playful with children, though interactions with very young kids should always be supervised to prevent accidental injury.

• Seniors and retirees: Their calm energy and low exercise needs make them excellent pets for elderly owners who want affection without the physical demands of a large breed.

• Apartment dwellers: Maltese dogs adapt perfectly to city life, requiring only small spaces as long as they have access to companionship and short outdoor walks.

They are less suitable for people who work long hours or travel frequently. Extended periods of isolation can lead to stress, barking, or depression. A Maltese should never be treated as a decorative pet — it requires the same emotional investment as a family member.

Living Environment

The Maltese should live indoors in a stable, temperature-controlled home. Their fine, single-layer coat offers little insulation against cold and no protection from heat. Ideal room temperature is between 18–24°C (65–75°F). During hot months, air conditioning and hydration are essential; in winter, they need sweaters or blankets for warmth.

Because they are clean, odorless, and non-shedding, they fit well in even the smallest living spaces. Maltese dogs enjoy quiet, predictable environments but can also adapt to moderate activity, such as visiting parks or socializing with other small dogs.

Their emotional stability depends heavily on routine. Feeding, walking, and playtime schedules should remain consistent. They crave affection and inclusion — whether sitting beside their owner during work hours or sleeping near them at night.

In short, the Maltese is a breed that gives as much love as it receives. It rewards care, attention, and consistency with unwavering devotion, making it one of the most fulfilling companion dogs in the world.

Life Expectancy and Reproduction of the Maltese

The Maltese enjoys one of the longest lifespans among dog breeds, averaging 12 to 15 years, with many living up to 17 years under optimal conditions. Their long life expectancy is due to their small size, strong genetics, and the attentive care they typically receive as cherished companions.

Reproductive Characteristics

The Maltese reaches sexual maturity around 8 to 10 months of age, but responsible breeding should never occur before 18 months. Females generally have two heat cycles per year, with each cycle lasting 2–3 weeks.

Typical litter size ranges from 2 to 4 puppies, reflecting the breed’s small stature. Because of their petite build, females sometimes require assistance during whelping, and cesarean delivery (C-section) is not uncommon, particularly in first-time mothers.

To ensure healthy offspring, breeders must focus on genetic screening — particularly for hereditary conditions such as patellar luxation, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and congenital liver shunts. Ethical breeding practices include health certification, proper spacing between litters, and avoiding overbreeding, which can shorten lifespan and reduce vitality.

Factors Influencing Longevity

• Genetic background: Puppies from health-tested parents live significantly longer.

• Nutrition: A diet high in quality proteins and antioxidants delays aging and supports joint health.

• Dental hygiene: Regular brushing and professional cleanings prevent systemic infections that can affect the heart and kidneys.

• Emotional well-being: Maltese dogs thrive when emotionally fulfilled. Stress or loneliness can manifest as illness or behavioral decline.

Caring for Senior Maltese Dogs

As Maltese dogs age, they may experience reduced stamina, joint stiffness, or mild vision and hearing loss. Senior care should include joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin), low-impact exercise, and semi-annual vet checkups. Maintaining a calm, warm, and familiar environment prevents anxiety in older dogs.

With consistent care, emotional attention, and preventive veterinary management, the Maltese remains bright, alert, and affectionate well into its later years — a true reflection of how deeply love and devotion extend a pet’s life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Maltese

Is the Maltese a good family dog?

Yes, the Maltese is an excellent family companion. They are affectionate, gentle, and love being part of daily household activities. Their calm nature makes them perfect for families with older children who understand how to handle small dogs delicately.

Are Maltese dogs good with children?

Yes, they are loving and patient with children, but supervision is important with toddlers. Due to their small size and fragile bones, they can be easily injured during rough play. Early socialization helps them adapt confidently to family life.

Do Maltese dogs bark a lot?

They can bark frequently, especially when seeking attention or alerting their owners. With consistent training and mental stimulation, barking can be managed. They make excellent watchdogs due to their alertness.

Are Maltese dogs hypoallergenic?

Yes, the Maltese is considered hypoallergenic because it has a single-layer coat that sheds minimally. However, no dog is 100% allergen-free. Regular grooming and cleaning reduce allergy triggers significantly.

How much exercise does a Maltese need daily?

Maltese dogs have moderate energy levels and need about 20–30 minutes of light exercise per day. Two short walks combined with indoor play sessions are enough to keep them healthy and content.

Can Maltese dogs be left alone at home?

They should not be left alone for long periods. The Maltese is highly people-oriented and prone to separation anxiety. Leaving toys, using crate training, and maintaining a calm departure routine help minimize stress.

Are Maltese dogs easy to train?

Yes, they are intelligent and eager to please, but they respond best to positive reinforcement. Harsh corrections or raised voices can make them fearful. Consistent, reward-based training produces the best results.

What are the most common health problems in Maltese dogs?

The breed is prone to dental disease, patellar luxation, allergies, and tear staining. Regular vet visits, good oral care, and a balanced diet greatly reduce the risk of these conditions.

How long does a Maltese dog live?

The Maltese typically lives between 12 and 15 years, though many live longer with excellent nutrition and preventive veterinary care. Their longevity reflects their small size and attentive human companionship.

Do Maltese dogs shed a lot of hair?

No, they are a very low-shedding breed. Their coat grows continuously, similar to human hair. Daily brushing prevents tangling and helps reduce dander in the home.

What kind of food is best for Maltese dogs?

High-quality small-breed kibble rich in lean protein, omega fatty acids, and digestible carbohydrates is ideal. Avoid cheap dog foods containing corn, soy, or artificial additives, which can trigger allergies or digestive upset.

Do Maltese dogs get along with other pets?

Yes, they usually coexist peacefully with other dogs and cats, especially if introduced early. Their social and friendly nature allows them to adapt easily to multi-pet households.

Can a Maltese tolerate cold or hot weather?

No, they are sensitive to temperature extremes. In cold weather, they need sweaters or coats, and during hot days, they should stay indoors with cool air and plenty of water.

How often should I groom my Maltese?

Daily brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles. Bathing every 2–3 weeks keeps their coat silky and clean. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks helps maintain coat length and shape.

Why does my Maltese have tear stains under its eyes?

Tear staining is caused by overactive tear ducts or minerals in water. Cleaning under the eyes daily with sterile pads and providing filtered water can help reduce the reddish-brown marks.

Are Maltese dogs suitable for apartment living?

Yes, the Maltese is one of the best breeds for apartment life. They require minimal space and enjoy being indoors as long as they receive affection and daily short walks.

Do Maltese dogs need a lot of attention?

Yes, this breed thrives on human interaction and companionship. They are happiest when included in family activities and can develop anxiety if ignored or left alone too long.

Are Maltese dogs good for first-time owners?

Absolutely. Their small size, gentle disposition, and intelligence make them easy to care for. First-time owners just need to commit to consistent grooming and positive training habits.

Can Maltese dogs swim?

They can swim for short periods, but supervision is crucial. Their small size and long coat make them tire quickly in water. Always use a dog life jacket during swimming activities.

Do Maltese dogs drool a lot?

No, they are not droolers. The Maltese has a clean, dry mouth, which contributes to their reputation as one of the most elegant and tidy companion dogs.

Are Maltese dogs prone to anxiety?

Yes, they are emotionally sensitive and can develop separation or situational anxiety. Consistent routines, gentle reassurance, and training help maintain emotional stability.

At what age does a Maltese reach full maturity?

The Maltese typically reaches full physical maturity at around 12 months, though mental and emotional maturity continues until about 18 months of age.

How often should I take my Maltese to the vet?

At least twice per year for general checkups, dental cleaning, and parasite prevention. Puppies and senior Maltese dogs may require more frequent visits depending on their health condition.

How much does a Maltese dog cost?

Prices vary depending on pedigree and breeder quality:

• USA: $2,000–$4,000

• UK: £1,500–£3,000

• Europe: €1,800–€3,500

• Turkey: ₺35,000–₺70,000Always purchase from ethical breeders who conduct health screenings.

Is the Maltese a banned breed anywhere?

No, the Maltese is not restricted or banned in any country. It is widely recognized and beloved worldwide as one of the most charming toy breeds.

Sources

• American Kennel Club (AKC)

• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

• The Kennel Club (UK)

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

• Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic – Haritada Aç: https://share.google/XPP6L1V6c1EnGP3Oc